After all the hard work and effort you have put towards making a change (or changes) in your life, achieving a goal or just mending a broken relationship... be mindful that you don't fall into regression mode... by letting things slip through the cracks. By falling back into unhealthy or unhelpful habits.
Regression is defined as: "the act of going back to a previous place or state; return or reversion." Keep moving forward so that you don't regress.
It seems, no matter how strong we are, there are times we just look back. The only time (or rather, the main reason) it seems reasonable to look back is to compare how far you have come, which for some is how far God has brought you in your journey. To be thankful for the progress--whether significant or insignificant. As you look back on 2016, today being the last day of the year, say goodbye and let go. Don't re-live any mistakes--especially what can't be undone as that is a recipe for disaster. Only celebrate victories, whatever they are--big or small. You made it through 2016--and you're still standing...
Regression should not be an option for you--only focus on moving forward. Take with you into 2017 the wisdom and lessons learned from 2016. "Know that [skillful and godly] wisdom is [so very good] for your life and soul; If you find wisdom, then there will be a future and a reward, and your hope and expectation will not be cut off." (Proverbs 24:14) Don't be too hard on yourself about things that happened to you, or what you did that you wish you hadn't done. Regret will only pull you down and spiral you into regression. Remember: The past is just that! THE PAST! If you look back only to long for yesterday (how things used to be), you will regress and may end up feeling more regret than anything else. That's not healthy--mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Look ahead--one day at a time.
Even God's word reminds us: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. (Isaiah 43:18-19) Therefore, make every effort not to overwhelm yourself with what the future holds. God has all that under control--so you don't have to worry about it. Some encouraging verses to remind you of this truth: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) “
As you enter 2017... You don't have to know everything about everything right now... Your role is to live, one day at a time. Even if you mess things up today, you can still get up and move forward. Never stay down... It's never too late! PS: Be patient with yourself and others around you.
